Derby County’s young midfield star Will Hughes has been under the microscope by the Premier League’s top clubs, with scouts paying regular attention to his development. His ability has now been recognised by England Under 21 coach, Stuart Pearce who has already drafted the 18 year old into his squad. Whilst other clubs are yet to act however, it seems that Newcastle united will try and strike a deal.

Hughes has a contract that runs until 2016, and there’s little doubt that Derby would love to keep him at Pride Park a while longer to help Nigel Clough drive the club towards the Premier League. The Geordies however appear likely to offer a deal that may suit both parties. Reports are that Alan Pardew will seek to persuade owner Mike Ashley to stump up a £10million bid for a deal that will allow Hughes to stay in the east Midlands for a further season, before moving to the Toon.

It’s the sort of deal that Manchester United used to persuade Crystal Palace to sell Wilfred Zaha. The deal worked out well for Palace as Zaha’s performances were key in getting the Eagles promoted, and now he can go off to Old Trafford with everyone smiling. Clearly, there’s no guarantee that Derby will have a similar experience, but it shows how these sorts of deals can work out to everyone’s benefit. Derby will be able to pocket a tranche of brass, and still retain the player’s services for a further season.

From then player’s perspective it takes a deal of pressure from young shoulders. Already assured of football at a higher level, the player can play without fear of nervousness as to which club may be watching him, thinking that a bad game could ruin his future.

Clearly, the news that Newcastle may be on the brink of striking a deal could be the catalyst for others to show their hands. Either way, for young Hughes, the future appears to be falling into focus.